Transforming RV Travel with GravitySlide

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ben Fisher, the founder of GravitySlide, transformed his passion for travel into an innovative business focused on the RV industry. After purchasing an RV to explore Canada with his wife, Fisher identified challenges related to towing and parking larger vehicles, which led him to develop a solution that enhances safety and sustainability in RV travel.

GravitySlide's primary product, GravityDrive, is an advanced electric drive system that empowers RV users to steer and park their travel trailers using a smartphone. This innovation eliminates the difficulties of maneuvering a towable RV, especially for those who struggle with limited visibility. GravityDrive is designed to be compatible with all existing towable RV models, offering a seamless and automated user experience.

In 2023, Fisher partnered with Innovation Factory’s Centre for Integrated Transportation and Mobility (CITM), an accelerator program backed by the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), to advance the commercialization of GravityDrive. Fisher, who has a strong entrepreneurial background, valued the mentorship and funding opportunities provided by CITM as critical components of his business development. The decision to establish GravitySlide in Hamilton, Ontario, was bolstered by proximity to resources like McMaster University and a supportive innovation ecosystem that aids in manufacturing and technological growth.

Throughout the commercialization process, Fisher received crucial guidance on business pitching and was introduced to potential partners, leading to significant funding initiatives. In 2024, GravitySlide secured up to $450,000 from OVIN through the R&D Partnership Fund, along with an additional $70,000 from OVIN’s Talent Edge Program for technology development. Collaboration with Ettractive, a fellow CITM innovator, further facilitated the manufacturing and deployment of GravityDrive technology.

Currently, GravitySlide is gaining momentum in the RV industry, drawing attention from industry leaders and early adopters. The company has formed a partnership with Nomad Customs, a respected brand in luxury RV restorations and upgrades, and is in talks with major retailers and dealerships to bring GravityDrive solutions to market. As they scale their operations, GravitySlide aims to expand its workforce to enhance expertise and produce innovative products.

The company has filed approximately 11 patents, either approved or pending, and Fisher envisions the licensing of GravityDrive technology as a primary strategy. By positioning GravitySlide as an OEM supplier, they aim to work with larger manufacturers, thus reducing market barriers for consumers and establishing a steady revenue stream.

GravitySlide is committed to fostering a new era of eco-friendly and convenient RV travel, with a mission to make outdoor adventures more accessible and enjoyable through their innovative technologies. With their focus on automated solutions and sustainability, GravitySlide is poised to make a significant impact in the RV sector, making it safer and more efficient for travelers. As they continue to innovate and grow, Fisher encourages potential entrepreneurs to explore how they can also bring their transportation or mobility innovations to market, highlighting the collaborative nature of the modern innovation landscape.